The essential medicines and health products programme is a critical WHO area with a number of flagship and successful initiatives. Its core focus – to increase access to essential, high-quality, safe, effective and affordable medical products – is highlighted in the Sustainable Development Goals and is represented agency-wide through programmes at regional and country levels. The new 2030 development agenda and increasing globalization of health products development and supply have generated a need – and an opportunity – for WHO to adjust and strengthen its work in this area at all three levels (headquarters, regional and country offices) of the Organization.